Weekend Walk: Beverley Westwood

The Westwood was given to the townspeople by the Lord of the Manor in 1380, and today locals still hold rights to graze cattle and sheep, an activity controlled by a committee known as the pasture masters. On the north side is Beverley Racecourse, which dates to 1690. The walk mainly follows the Westwood’s boundaries between York Road and the southern fringe, taking in an area known as Burton Bushes, the last surviving remnant of the old West Wood, and the wooded dell of Newbegin Pits. If there’s time visit the old Blackmill on the highest point, one of five windmills which once stood on the Westwood. Look out for green woodpeckers, bullfinches and long-tailed tits around the edges.

One of the access points to the Westwood

1. From the parking area at the Beverley end of Newbald Road walk through the line of trees on the north side and turn left to walk south westwards. Soon a path bears right to cross the Westwood. Two clumps of trees are passed on the right before the woodland of Burton Bushes is approached.

2. Follow a path in the grass which forks right and joins another path heading towards York Road, then look for a path going sharp left, leading into the trees. The path curves through Burton Bushes to emerge on the Westwood pasture. Keep to the boundary to reach Newbald Road.

3. Cross the road with care and continue along the edge of the Westwood. After about ⅓ of a mile bear left towards the clubhouse of Beverley and East Riding Golf Club. Cross the B1230 with care and turn left to walk past the golf club entrance. Beyond it go right on a grass path, and swing left when level with the car park. Walk with a hedge on the right until a track is met. Turn left and follow it to Keldgate Road.

4. Go right for a short distance then cross the road with care to follow a path along the edge of the Westwood. Cross Walkington Road with care and continue on the path as it enters Newbegin Pits. Emerge from the trees and turn left to return to the car parking area.

Public transport: Beverley is on the Hull-Scarborough railway line, and served by buses from York, Hull, Driffield and Scarborough. For bus times visit eyms.co.uk or tel 01482 222222. Train times: visit www.traveline.info or call 0871 2002233.